Anthony Verity's translation of the Iliad is noted for its clarity and precision, offering an accessible version of Homer's epic while maintaining the poem's grandeur and intensity. Verity employs a straightforward narrative style that resonates with the modern reader, capturing the emotional depth and high drama of the original text without unnecessary embellishment. Compared to other translations, Verity's work stands out for its balance between literal accuracy and lyrical expression, preserving the ancient story's force while steering clear of overly poetic language. His translation remains faithful to the source material, as seen in passages like the opening invocation and the nuanced dialogues between characters such as Athena and Diomedes. Verity's rendition is perfect for readers seeking a direct and engaging experience of the Iliad's timeless themes of heroism, mortality, and fate.
SING, goddess, the anger of Achilles, Peleus' son,
the accursed anger which brought the Achaeans countless
agonies and hurled many mighty shades of heroes into Hades,
causing them to become the prey of dogs and
all kinds of birds; and the plan of Zeus was fulfilled.
Sing from the time the two men were first divided in strife—
Atreus' son, lord of men, and glorious Achilles.